About Us

Academy for Early Learning programs are privately owned preschools dedicated to providing the highest quality of early learning and care available for your child.  The centers are owned by Karen McLoughlin, and are her passion and life work.  Karen earned her bachelors degree from the University of Maryland  in 1985; completed her Masters coursework in Preschool Education in December, 2006.  McLoughlin lives in North Port with her husband Gene.  Karen’s daughter Loren, now 21 years old, is a Senior at FAU.  Karen’s passion and commitment to excellence is evident in every dimension of the gold seal program. "This is my passion and life work as evident in every dimension of my powerful program.  We strive to bring out the best in ourselves and the children and families we serve," states McLoughlin.

I believe that all children deserve love, attention, nurturing, and the gift of high quality early learning. I believe that a safe environment allows children to explore and grow. At the Academy for Early Learning, we allow children to have hands-on learning experiences. This fosters age appropriate development. We read to the children everyday. We believe that positive reinforcement is important for children to develop self-esteem. Children need an environment that supports free expression,  stimulates learning, and sets them up to succeed. Most importantly, however, I believe that children need to have fun!

At the Academy for Early Learning, we make sure that every child is involved in stimulating activities everyday. Children learn best when they are interested and having fun; it is through this process that children learn.  We recognize the importance of work, and the stress and demands placed on parents. We strive to make it easier on parents by giving them the knowledge that their children are in good hands.

All of our teachers pass a rigorous screening and fingerprinting process. We are licensed in Florida. Most of our teachers have advanced degrees in child development. Come by for a tour and experience the world class program that is right in your neighborhood!

Karen McLoughlin
Owner/Executive Director, Academy for Early Learning

We serve nutritious snacks, love and nurturing daily!
Open Year Round:

• Monday - Friday 7 AM- 5:30 PM
• North Port is Nationally Accredited and Fl Gold Seal (Port Charlotte is pending accreditation; anticipate 4/2013 approval) 
• Ages 18 Months - 5 Years Old
• Free Program for Children Age 4 (VPK)
• Preferred Provider School Readiness Coalition
• Children's Coalition and Childcare Connection Scholarships Accepted
• Military Scholarships Accepted